INTERVIEW: Judge Loyd Wright takes a moment to discuss his Dream, Mission, and Outlook for 2015 with Aubrey R. Taylor

PROBATE JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT – pictured with Judge Christine Riddle Butts (right). Judge Loyd Wright (left) currently serves as the Probate Judge for District Court #1 in Harris County. As an attorney with over 27 years experience in probate, trust guardianship, estate planning, and elder law, he’s developed a solid reputation as a man who is very capable of handling the matters entrusted to him with diligence and integrity. A wealth of the experience brought to the bench by Judge Wright was gained through the extensive experience he’s garnered as an attorney assisting executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, and beneficiaries in complex probate proceedings while recovering millions of dollars in assets lost through fraud and breach of fiduciary duty. Over the years, he has been appointed by fellow probate judges to handle both contested and uncontested estate and guardianship matters. The experience he’s garnered over the last thirty years has served him well on the bench.

# # # #

# # # #

INTERVIEW: Judge Loyd Wright (Probate Judge for Harris County Probate Court #1) answers a few questions asked by Aubrey R. Taylor about his dream, mission in life, outlook for 2015, and advice to others striving to achieve their dream

QUESTION #1

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What was life like for you as a child growing up?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I had a great childhood, playing sandlot and organized baseball, football and basketball. I had loving and supportive parents and an older brother, all of whom provided guidance and good advice throughout my life. My mother and father also stressed academics. I will never forget my father's frequent admonishment to not come home with a "B"! I took him very seriously and tried my best to never disappoint him.

QUESTION #2

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What did you dream of becoming as you were a child growing up?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I suppose if I had a main dream it was to play baseball and football for Rice University. I was admitted to Rice but made a late decision to "get out of town" and attend the University of Texas. I sometimes think about the choices I made, like we all do.

QUESTION #3

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Did you achieve your childhood dream, or did it evolve into something different?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I did not become the star left handed pitcher or tight end I dreamed of being, but the emphasis on academics paved the way for a good legal career which ultimately led to the job I have now as Judge of Probate Court No. 1. Who could complain about that? As a sole practitioner for nineteen years, I had control over my time and was often able to coach my son's and daughter's teams. I would not trade those days being with them for anything.

QUESTION #4

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your mission in life?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: My mission in life now is to enjoy my family, continue to do my job to the best of my ability, and help others whenever I can.

QUESTION #5

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Do you have a recent accomplishment you would like to share?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: My biggest professional accomplishment has been to win two terms as Judge of Probate Court No. 1. I want to continue to earn the confidence of those who come into court and reaffirm that I will always do my utmost to be fair, impartial and diligent.

QUESTION #6

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What is your outlook for 2015?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: I think 2015 is going to be another great year for the Texas and Houston. I am looking forward to another four years on the bench. I have a wonderful staff that keeps things running smoothly "behind the scenes." It is just a great place to show up to in the morning.

QUESTION #7

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: What advice would you give to someone out there striving to achieve their dream?

JUDGE LOYD WRIGHT: Everyone should start by giving their best effort in school. There really is no consistently better way to change the circumstances of your life than through achievement and success in school. Doing well academically will give you more opportunities and choices in what to do with your life. Of course, working hard at whatever you decide to do will also make a tremendous difference, perhaps the biggest difference. These core principles become cliches for a reason! America offers so many different opportunities to be successful in one way or another. But you have to be a participant. You have to make a good faith effort. You have to be "in the game". Don't be someone who sits on the sidelines and then complains that things are not fair.

# # # #

"I would like to take this moment to thank Judge Loyd Wright for finding value in our vision to uplift, inspire, inform, and empower others in association with our "2014 Year-End Review" edition of Houston Business Connections Magazine." -- Aubrey

As President and CEO of Aubrey R. Taylor Communications, I encourage you to support the people, small business, organizations, corporations and ministries who support our mission and vision to uplift, inspire, inform, and empower others as we climb.

Best regards,

Aubrey R. Taylor
Publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine
957 NASA PARKWAY #251
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77058-3039
P: (832)212-8735
C: (832)894-1352
EMAIL: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com
BLOG: www.aubreyrtaylor.blogspot.com

**** Please do not forget that your support can enable us to reach more people with our message of encouragement, hope, inspiration, and empowerment. So email me your request for a hard-copy of our “2014 Year-End Review” edition of Houston Business Connections Magazine today at: (aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com). And don’t forget that our ad prices start at a very low $40.00 dollars per issue. WE CAN ACHIEVE OUR INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE GOALS AND DREAMS BY FINDING CREATIVE WAYS TO WORK TOGETHER!!!

# # # #

Click here to email us your request to have Houston Business Connections Magazine mailed directly to your home or business today.

# # # #

# # # #

PEOPLE FEATURED ON THE COVER: Businessman Craig Joseph (owner of Houston's This Is It Soul Food). FBISD Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre, TSU Program Director Dr. Michael O. Adams (Director of the eMPA and MPA programs at Texas Southern University), Judge Loyd Wright (District Probate Judge for Court #1 in Harris County), Businessman Bill Frazer (2015 Candidate for Controller of Houston), Controller Ronald C. Green (City of Houston Controller), Mayor Allen Owen (the mayor of Missouri City), Judge Christine Riddle Butts (District Probate Judge for Court #4 in Harris County), Grayle James (the FBISD President of the Board of Trustees), and Educator/Attorney Carroll G. Robinson (2015 Candidate for Controller of Houston). Email your request to (aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com) if you would like to have a copy of our "2014 Year-End Review" edition of Houston Business Connections Magazine mailed directly to your home or business.

# # # #



# # # #

# # # #

Boasting accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), the master of public administration (MPA) program at TSU is a 48-credit-hour program that has produced key change agents in human resources, international development and policy. For more information about these programs, please contact Dr. Michael O. Adams, 713-313-7760. 

# # # #

# # # #

Launched in Fall 2013, the emergency management and homeland security (EMHS) program is designed to create graduates with extensive theoretical and applied knowledge in emergency management and disaster research. The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security prepares students for careers in emergency management and public safety careers and will introduce students to the all-hazards approach, emergency disaster management phases, risk assessment, prevention and management, counter-terrorism, consequence management, mitigation, and recovery. For more information about these programs, please contact Dr. Michael O. Adams, 713-313-7760. 

# # # #

# # # #

About Carroll G. Robinson

Carroll G. Robinson is an Associate Professor and a former Associate Dean of External Affairs at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston, Texas. Professor Robinson is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System (HCC) and a Citizen Member of the Board of Trustees of the Houston Firefighters’ Relief and Retirement Fund. He is a former member of the Board of Directors and Board of Advisors of K9s4COPs. He is also a past chairman of the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce.

Professor Robinson is a former At-Large (elected citywide) member of the Houston (Texas) City Council. As a member of the City Council, Professor Robinson chaired the city’s Transportation, Technology and Infrastructure Committee. 

Professor Robinson represented the City of Houston on the Board of Directors of the Houston-Galveston Area Council, the local council of regional governments. He served as a member of the Board’s Budget Committee and was a Vice Chair of the Transportation Policy Council. He also represented the City of Houston on the Board of Directors of the Alliance for I-69 Texas and TEX-21, a statewide transportation coalition of elected officials, business leaders and transportation and infrastructure professionals.

Professor Robinson is a former member of the Board of Directors of the National League of Cities where he served as a member of the Board’s Finance Committee and was a member of the Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Steering Committee. He is a former member of the Texas Municipal League’s Utilities and Environment Committee, and Transportation Task Force; Advisory Board of the Texas Environmental Defense Fund; a past President of the Texas Association of Black City Council Members where he was also a member of the Housing Committee; a former member of the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO); a former member of the Texas Attorney General’s Municipal Advisory Committee (1998); Founding Chairman of the Democratic Leadership Council’s Local Elected Officials Network; a former Chairman of the National League of Cities Democratic Municipal Officials; a former member of the Democratic National Committee (DNC); and a former General Counsel of the Texas Democratic Party. 

Prior to his election to the Houston City Council, Professor Robinson was an Associate Professor at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. He has also worked as an adjunct Professor at South Texas College of Law. 

Professor Robinson has worked in the Texas Legislature as Chief of Staff and General Counsel to Texas State Senator Rodney Ellis. He received his Bachelor of Arts (with Honors) in Political Science from Richard Stockton State College in Pomona, New Jersey (where he received a Certificate of Academic Accomplishment in African-American Studies) and his Juris Doctorate from the National Law Center at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. 

Professor Robinson is a Life Member of the NAACP and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is the author or co-author of numerous legal and public policy articles and commentaries. Robinson plans to put his vast experience and know-how to work for the people of Houston should voters choose him as the best candidate in the race for City of Houston Controller on the Tuesday, November 3, 2015 City of Houston Mayoral Election ballot.

# # # #

The Houston Realty Business Coalition (HRBC) Endorses Judge Loyd Wright for the November 2014 Election race for Judge Probate Court No. 1 in Harris County

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Judge Loyd Wright is another one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Judge Wright is the Republican incumbent running for reelection for Judge, Harris County Probate Court No. 1. Judge Loyd Wright is facing a challenge from Democrat Kim Bohannon in this race. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Judge Loyd Wright. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Judge Loyd Wright is the only candidate in the race for Judge, Probate Court No. 1 who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

2014 ELECTION UPDATE

The Houston Realty Business Coalition (HRBC) Endorses Judge Loyd Wright for the November 2014 Election

HOUSTON – The Houston Realty Business Coalition (HRBC) has endorsed Judge Loyd Wright, Probate Court No. 1, for the November 4th election.

“The Houston Realty Business Coalition (HRBC) is proud to support these candidates,” said Welcome Wilson, Jr., Chairman of the Houston Realty Business Coalition. “HRBC has no doubts that these are not only the most qualified candidates but that their collective principled leadership, dedication, and hard work will continue to dictate decisions that will be good for Texas.”

“The purpose of our organization is to give voice to the many professionals who work in the real estate industry and to see that their opinions are heard. We take great pride in our selections and in the judgment of our members that these are the best candidates” said Welcome Wilson, Jr., Houston Realty Business Coalition Chairman

The organization was established in 1967 and encourages the election of those candidates who support and affirm one of the most precious and basic American rights: the rights associated with the private ownership of property.

A powerful force in the political and business life of Houston, membership in the group includes Democrats, Republicans and Independents.

The Probate Court endorsements are:

Probate Court, No. 1. - Judge Loyd Wright (R)

Probate Court, No. 2 - Judge Mike Wood (R)

Probate Court, No. 3 - Judge Rory Robert Olsen (R)

Probate Court, No. 4 - Judge Christine Riddle Butts (R)

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Judge Christine Riddle Butts is another one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Judge Butts is the Republican incumbent running for reelection for Judge, Harris County Probate Court No. 4. Judge Christine Butts is facing a challenge from Democrat James Horowitz in this race. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Judge Christine Riddle Butts. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Judge Christine Riddle Butts is the only candidate in the race for Judge, Probate Court No. 4 who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Attorney John Schmude is one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Attorney John Schmude is the Republican candidates running for District Judge for the 247th Judicial District Court in Harris County. Attorney Schmude will face off against Democrat Clinton "Chip" Wells in this race. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Attorney John Schmude. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Attorney John Schmude is the only candidate in the race for District Judge for the 247th Judicial District Court who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Congressman Kevin Brady is one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Congressman Brady currently represents the 8th Congressional District of Texas and does not have a Democratic challenger on Election Day. However, Ken Petty is a Libertarian candidate also running for United States Congress for the 8th Congressional District. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Congressman Kevin Brady. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Congressman Kevin Brady is the only candidate in the race for United States Congress for the 8th Congressional District who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Judge Kyle Carter is one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Judge Carter is currently serving as Judge for the 125th Civil District Court in Harris County. However on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 he will be on the ballot running for Chief Justice for 14th Court of Appeals District in Texas against Justice Kem Thompson Frost the Republican incumbent. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Judge Kyle Carter. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Judge Kyle Carter is the only candidate in the race for Chief Justice for the 14th Court of Appeals who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Judge Wesley Ward is another one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Judge Ward is the Republican incumbent running for reelection for District Judge, 247th Judicial District Court in Harris County. Judge Wesley Ward is facing a challenge from Democrat Barbara Gardner in this race. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Judge Wesley Ward. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Judge Wesley Ward is the only candidate in the race for District Judge, 234th Judicial District Court in Harris County who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Lt. Col. Sean Seibert is one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Lt. Col. Seibert is the Republican candidate running  for United States Congress for the 18th Congressional District. Lt. Col. Seibert is challenging Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee for this seat. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Lt. Col. Sean Seibert. As of the date of this blog post Lt. Col. Sean Seibert is the only candidate in the race for United States Congress for the 18th Congressional District who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

A MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Judge Jay Karahan is one of the candidates asking for your vote and support on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election. Judge Karahan is the Republican incumbent running for reelection for Judge, County Criminal Court No. 8 in Harris County. Judge Karahan is facing a challenge from Democrat Kelli Johnson in this race. So don't forget that early voting for this race will begin on Monday, October 20, 2014 and end on Friday, October 31, 2014. Click here if you would like to learn more about Judge Jay Karahan. NOTE: As of the date of this blog post Judge Jay Karahan is the only candidate in the race for Judge, Harris County Criminal Court No. 8 who is seeking your vote.

# # # #

# # # #

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS EDITION

PLAYING AS A WELL-ORGANIZED TEAM WILL MOVE AMERICA FORWARD  

Our nation must play as a team for us to be successful as a body of people. And just like any sports team, we must play within the established system, rules and guidelines for us to be SUCCESSFUL. We must also play out every quarter to claim true VICTORY as a nation. So view this crucial moment in our nation’s history as the final quarter of a crucial game for the team you love. 

# # # #

DRAFT GOOD TEAM PLAYERS IN THE 2014 MIDTERM ELECTIONS

On Tuesday, November 4, 2014 the Midterm Elections will be taking place in America. Early voting will be taking place from Monday, October 20, 2014 to Friday, October 31, 2014. So make sure to draft the most qualified candidates to represent you.

# # # #

THIS MESSAGE MAY NOT BE FOR YOU

This message is being written to “OPEN-MINDED AMERICANS”. So, if you’re not “OPEN-MINDED” and “AMERICAN” you can read on; but you may not find much value in this message. 

# # # #

PLEASE MAKE A MENTAL NOTE BEFORE READING ANY FURTHER

This message is the expressed written opinion of Aubrey R. Taylor, the publisher of Houston Business Connections Magazine and does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of any candidate, advertiser, sponsor or supporter of Aubrey R. Taylor Communications. And please keep in mind that the people associated with the (ONE AMERICA) – “Leaders Celebrating Freedom Series” are not connected to one another in anyway unless otherwise noted. If you have any questions or concerns about this message or Aubrey R. Taylor, please send them to: aubreyrtaylor@gmail.com

# # # #

HOW OPEN-MINDED ARE YOU?

Are you a team player? Do you believe in God? Are you striving to reach your full potential? Do you strive to make informed decisions? Do you use your own mind when it comes to making crucial decisions about your life? Do you try to find the best candidates on Election Day? Do you vote for people of God or simply vote for people who belong to a specific political party? Do you have a dream? Do you want to see America come together for the betterment of every American citizen? Do you hate racism in any form? What about injustice: Do you hate injustice in any form?

# # # #

THIS MESSAGE IS FOR OPEN-MINDED PEOPLE JUST LIKE YOU

If you answered yes to any of the questions listed above, congratulations, this message was written just for you. You are a crucial and very important part of the process of making sure our generation “ANSWERS THE CALL” and moves America forward.

# # # #

LEADERS ARE ESTABLISHED BY GOD

If you take a moment to read Jeremiah 23:5 you will find that God raises up people and causes them to reign and prosper for the purpose of executing judgment and justice in the earth.

If you take a moment to read 1 Peter 2:13-17 you will find that God’s desires for us to honor and submit ourselves to those He’s allowed to be placed in authority and leadership. But do not worry about those governments and those in authority who prove to be cruel and unjust; for every person in authority will have to give an account of their actions come judgment day. Governments are established and allowed to rule by God. And our governors as authority figures are established by our Creator for the punishment of those who do wrong and the praise of those who do right. Scripture is very clear on this point, as it teaches us to honor all people, and to love our brothers and sisters as we fear God.

If you take a moment to read Romans 13:1-2 you will find that every person should be subject to the governing authorities. The scriptures goes even further in teaching us that there’s no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. So when you see people disrespecting and resisting “GOD’S SERVANTS” they’re actually disrespecting and resisting God. Furthermore, they’re in complete and total rebellion against God’s elect.

# # # #

GOD CREATED US AND EVERY OTHER LIVING CREATURE MALE AND FEMALE FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROCREATION

If you take a moment to read Genesis 1:21-22 you will find that God created great whales, and every living creature that moves, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their own kind, and every winged fowl He also created after their own kind. And the bible says that God saw that it was good for the creatures that He’d created to procreate in the earth. The scriptures furthermore teaches us that God blessed the creatures, and instructed them to be fruitful, and multiply in the earth.

If you take a moment to read Genesis 1:27-28 you will find that God created man in His own image; but He made us as male and female for the purpose of reproducing and repopulating the earth. God also called us blessed, and has commanded us to be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth, and to subdue it.

# # # #

A FEW AWESOME THINGS ABOUT THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

We are “ONE NATION UNDER GOD” in America. We are a nation of laws divinely ordered and established by our Creator. And in this, our Creator has given us a say in who governs over us as a nation. However, far too many of us are choosing to not participate in the process which God has established to assist us with putting godly people in authority and control of our nation. 

# # # #

New Living Translation

"When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan." - Proverbs: 29:2

# # # #

OUR RESPONSIBILITY AS CITIZENS OF THIS GREAT NATION

As a “COLLECTIVE BODY” of people we must make a more concerted effort to be a part of the solution our nation needs during this crucial hour and moment in history. 

Our responsibility as Americans is to take part in the elections process; then once we have spoken as a “COLLECTIVE BODY” of people we must honor the choices we have made. Our “PUBLIC SERVANTS” are elected by a majority of voters on Election Day. This is why every eligible American citizen should be a part of the process of voting.

# # # #

WHAT AMERICANS SHOULD DO ONCE AN ELECTION IS DECIDED

In the best interest of our nation, we should submit to whichever government we find ourselves under once we have spoken as a people on Election Day. We can do this by working with our “ELECTED OFFICIALS” to accomplish what’s best for us as “ONE NATION UNDER GOD”.

# # # #

EVERY FOUR YEARS

Our founding fathers under the direction of our Creator has established a system that affords us the opportunity to choose our leaders every four years. In this system, our Creator affords us the opportunity to elect other “SERVANTS OF GOD” to positions of authority as a counter balance to guard against the abuse of power by any one we have elected as our president; that's why our founding fathers were divinely directed by our Creator to establish the United States Senate and United States House of Representatives.

# # # #

WE ARE THE PEOPLE

Even though those in authority are “SERVANTS OF GOD” our Creator has afforded us a system of government that is kept in check by our constitution and not by whomever is acting as our "PUBLIC SERVANTS" at any particular time. So don’t ever forget that America is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. And under this God-ordained political system of democracy we are granted certain rights. With this said, we must know our rights to be EFFECTIVE AND EMPOWERED as citizens of America.

# # # #

(From: Hartley, William H., Vincent, William S.. American Civics. N.Y., 1974, pp. 34ff) 

HOW OUR GOVERNMENT WORKS

Government is the authority or power that people establish to help them run their affairs. 

Governments serve many important purposes, but the most important one is that government makes it possible for people to live and work together. Government provides us with rules of conduct we can follow. Government makes it possible for people to live by known laws, and helps provide many services that citizens acting alone could not perform themselves. 

Our nation's government is based on the American Constitution. This Constitution, together with its Bill of Rights and other amendments, provides us with a workable plan of government. The Constitution also guarantees to all Americans many priceless rights and freedoms. 

Our nation's government is based upon the approval, or consent, of the people who are governed. It is a federal system in which certain powers are given to the national government and other powers are left to the states and to the people. Certain powers are shared by both federal and state governments. In both federal and state governments, powers are separated and balanced among three branches of government.

# # # #

The Rights and Freedoms of Americans 

In drafting the Constitution, most of the Founding Fathers believed that the safeguards written into it would protect the rights of Americans. But when the Constitution was sent to the states in 1787 for ratification, a great roar of disapproval went up. In Virginia, Patrick Henry protested vigorously against the lack of a specific statement of rights. Other Americans from different states demanded that a Bill of Rights be added to the Constitution. A number of states ratified the Constitution only conditionally. That is, they would approve the Constitution only if it were changed to include these rights.

Two years after the new American government went into effect, the Bill of Rights was added as the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Congress discussed nearly 200 proposals for amendments before it presented these ten to the states for approval. The states ratified these amendments, and they became part of the Constitution in 1791. 

THE BILL OF RIGHTS 

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, or the Bill of Rights, set forth the priceless rights or freedoms that all Americans may enjoy. A brief summary of these great freedoms is given here. 

FREEDOM OF RELIGION 

The first right, or freedom, guaranteed in the Bill of Rights is freedom of religion. This right is guaranteed in the First Amendment. Freedom of religion guarantees to all Americans the right to practice any religion they choose, or to practice no religion at all.

Congress is forbidden to establish any religion as our nation's official religion. Congress cannot favor any one religion over others or tax citizens in order to support any one religion. 

FREEDOM OF SPEECH 

The right to express your ideas and opinions when you speak is called freedom of speech. Freedom of speech also means the right to listen to the thoughts and opinions of others. This freedom guarantees that Americans are free to express their thoughts and ideas about anything. They may talk freely to their friends and neighbors or speak in public to a group of people. Of course, no one may use his freedom of speech to injure others. If a person knowingly says things that are false about another, he may be sued in court by the person or persons who believe they have been harmed by what he said.

Americans are free to express opinions about their government or anything else. They are free to criticize the actions of the government and of government officials. In a dictatorship, where the nation's government has all the powers, the people have no right to speak like this. They do not dare to criticize the actions of the government. If they do, they may be imprisoned. But all Americans enjoy the freedom of speech, which is guaranteed in the First Amendment. 

FREEDOM OF THE PRESS 

The freedom to express your ideas and opinions in writing is known as freedom of the press. This freedom is closely related to freedom of speech and is also guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Freedom of the press gives all Americans the right to express their ideas and thoughts freely in writing. This writing may be in newspapers, books, magazines, or any other printed or written form. Americans are also free to read what others write. They may read any newspaper, book or magazine they want. Because they are free to read a variety of facts and opinions, Americans can become better-informed citizens. 

FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY 

Another priceless freedom guaranteed by the First Amendment is freedom of assembly, or freedom to hold meetings. Americans are free to meet together to discuss problems and to plan their actions. Of course, such meetings must be carried on in a peaceful way. 

FREEDOM OF PETITION 

The freedom of petition is the right to ask your government to do something or to refrain from doing something. The First Amendment contains this guarantee, also. The freedom of petition gives you the right to write to your Congressman and request him to work for the passage of laws you favor. You are free to ask him to change laws that you do not like. The right of petition also helps government officials to know what Americans think and what actions they want the government to take. 

THE RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS 

The Second Amendment to the Constitution guarantees Americans the right to bear arms. In the early years of our nation, Americans needed weapons in order to serve in the militia, or volunteer armies, that were established to defend our states. The militia provided protection during emergencies, too. Many Americans also believed that without weapons they would be powerless if the government tried to overstep its powers and rule by force. 

"NO-QUARTERING" RIGHT 

The Third Amendment states, "No soldier shall, in times of peace, be quartered in any house. . . ." Under British rule, the colonists sometimes had to feed and house British soldiers against their will. As a result, Americans wanted this practice forbidden under the Bill of Rights. 

THE RIGHT TO EQUAL JUSTICE 

The Bill of Rights contains many rights that are guaranteed to persons accused of a crime. Amendments Five, Six, Seven, and Eight are all concerned with these rights. Our nation places great importance on these rights in order to guarantee equal justice for all Americans.

A person must be indicted, or formally accused of a crime, by a group of citizens called a "grand jury" before he can be brought into court for trial. 

A person accused of a crime is guaranteed the right to know what law he is accused of breaking. 

A person accused of a crime has a right to a prompt public trial by a jury of his fellow citizens. 

An accused person cannot be put into prison and kept there for weeks or months while awaiting a trial. He has the right to leave jail, in most cases, if he can raise a certain sum of money, or bail, as a pledge that he will appear at his trial.

An accused person has a right to a lawyer to represent him in court. 

All the testimony and evidence against an accused person must be presented publicly in court. 

The accused person has the right to call any witnesses to appear if their testimony will help him.

The accused person cannot be forced to testify or give evidence against himself.

If the accused person is found guilty, he cannot be given cruel or unusual punishment. If the accused person is found not guilty of a serious crime, he cannot be tried a second time for this same crime. 

THE RIGHT TO 
OWN PRIVATE PROPERTY 

The Fifth Amendment guarantees Americans the right to own private property. No person may take away anything that we own. Nor can the government seize our land, money, or other forms of property without cause, or without paying for it. The right to own private property is one of America's basic freedoms. Our free economic system is based upon this right. 

THE RIGHT TO ENJOY 
MANY OTHER FREEDOMS 

To make doubly sure that Americans should enjoy every right and freedom possible, Amendment Nine was added to the Constitution. This amendment states that the list of rights contained in the Bill of Rights is not complete. There are many other rights that all Americans have and will continue to have even though they are not mentioned in the Bill of Rights. Among them are the following.

Freedom to live or travel anywhere in our nation

Freedom to work at any job for which we can qualify

Freedom to marry and raise a family

Freedom to receive a free education in good public schools

Freedom to join a political party, a union, and other legal groups 

As a final guarantee of our rights, the Tenth Amendment set aside many powers of government for the states. This Amendment says that all powers not given to the federal government by the Constitution, nor forbidden to the states, are set aside for the states, or for the people. This provision leaves with the states the power to act in many ways to guarantee the rights of their citizens. 

SUMMARY 

Government is the authority or power that people establish to help them run their affairs. 

Governments serve many important purposes, but the most important one is that government makes it possible for people to live and work together. Government provides us with rules of conduct we can follow. Government makes it possible for people to live by known laws, and helps provide many services that citizens acting alone could not perform themselves. 

Our nation's government is based on the American Constitution. This Constitution, together with its Bill of Rights and other amendments, provides us with a workable plan of government. The Constitution also guarantees to all Americans many priceless rights and freedoms. 

Our nation's government is based upon the approval, or consent, of the people who are governed. It is a federal system in which certain powers are given to the national government and other powers are left to the states and to the people. Certain powers are shared by both federal and state governments. In both federal and state governments, powers are separated and balanced among three branches of government. 

# # # #

# # # #

AUDIO VERSION  I  PRINT VERSION

MESSAGE FROM AUBREY R. TAYLOR: "We must actively participate in the process of selecting our "Public Servants" on Tuesday, November 4, 2014. Proverbs 29:2 says, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." So let's do our best to try to elect righteous "Public Servants" using the acronym 'FREEDOM' during the early voting period (Monday, October 20th through Friday, October 31st) right on through Election Day!"

# # # #

 # # # #

Pastor Robert L. Thomas, his wife Tracey and daughters, Mariel and Taylor

# # # #

Why We Should All Go Vote in the Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Midterm Elections

By Pastor Robert L. Thomas

 I know many of us will say the old cliché’ “Our forefathers died for this right!,” which is very true; but that alone as an argument to motivate us to do what we should already be excited to do – just isn’t enough.

 Why we have to extol the virtues of voting to a people just a few decades removed from one of the worst atrocities ever perpetuated against mankind in the detestable act of slavery is really beyond me.

 It really boils down to this: if you are interested in having a better quality of life – you should go out and vote; if you want your children to be able to afford to attend college – then go vote; if you think your taxes are too high for the services you receive – go out and vote; if your school system is not what you want it to be – yep, you should get up and roll to the polls.

 It really is true – your vote is your voice! We have to be stronger in voice, so that what we say, when we say it, matters – and we are responsible for doing that at the voting booth. Elected officials work for the taxpayers, not the other way around, and as such, they should not be able to tell us what they are going to do…they are to push forward the positive agendas for bettering our safety, opportunities, prosperity and quality of life.

 The choice is yours, accept things as they are, or vote and seek the systemic change we all so richly deserve!

 Be Safe, and Stay Informed!

 Robert L. Thomas, Jr.
Robert Thomas Ministries
Senior Pastor of Olivet Missionary Baptist Church
Contact: (713)224-1515

# # # #

# # # #

# # # #

Go vote on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 in the 2014 Midterm Election for Harris County

By Bishop K.J. Brown

Voting is an empowered opportunity to choose leadership which should be exercised every time we have the opportunity. Our collective voice is of great value to our neighborhoods, communities, city and country.

Our political system affords us the opportunity to vote…and every vote matters. Everyone who is eligible to vote should do so. Never buy into polls and percentages put out in the media…and figure that your vote won’t make a difference. Every vote counts and every voice will be heard by you participating in this very important and pivotal election taking place on Tuesday, November 4th.

Be attentive to the issues and think forward. When I cast a ballot at the polls I use a biblical example as my guide. God chose David as King. When I read the story of David, I see a lesson we can all use in voting. God chose David because of the following reasons. ONE: His heart. TWO: His History. THREE: How he would handle the issues. FOUR: How he would help the people. FIVE: How he would be used to heal the land.

God knew that David wouldn’t be perfect; but God was able to use him in civil government in order to fulfill his divine purpose. Voting is not only valuable to the candidates. Voting is valuable to you and your family too. Our families are counting on us at the polls. Your right to vote is very valuable. So use it to be a part of the collective voice that leads this country forward. God Bless America!!!

Bishop K.J. Brown Ministries

“Building Winning Lives!”

Email: bishopkjbrown@gmail.com

# # # #

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS MESSAGE BY BISHOP ALLEN

The American Dream Is Ours...So Let's Go Get It -- You have authority to walk in dominion. So don't let anything stop you from doing what you've been called to do. We must bring our community at large to another level of existence. To do this we must put some principles into perspective and practice.


We must put people into office who are not afraid to stand up for righteousness, and walk in the authority given to them by God.



We must put entrepreneurs in their rightful place as leaders in our communities and the marketplace. We must do this by making sure that we support our businesses. But we must also make sure our banks are supporting our businesses and empowering them to be competitive in the marketplace.



We must also educate and empower our communities on the concept of how the economy and free market really works.

# # # #



LISTEN TO BISHOP ALLEN

The American Dream - This is an inspirational hip hop message from Bishop Anthony A. Allen and Billy Cook a legendary hook singer and rapper. Bishop Allen and his wife Matishe, are the founders of Anthony Allen Ministries and one of the "FEATURED SPONSORS" of the Houston Business Connections Magazine "Celebrating Freedom" series June 2014 - January 2015. Billy Cook has been featured on over 500 records including Chamillioanire's "The Sound Of Revenge". He's worked with just about every big name rapper in Texas. Bishop Anthony A. Allen is an apostolic leader who also serves the community at large as a businessman, entrepreneur, investor, author, and entertainer. He is the founder and president of Anthony Allen Ministries, a ministry called to serve the urban community.

# # # #

The individuals featured on this page are not connected to one another directly or indirectly unless noted. Being featured on this page does not constitute and endorsement or recommendation by Aubrey R. Taylor Communications unless noted.